Evaluation of a 2-liter plastic container for parenteral nutrient solutions

Cost effectiveness and clinical applicability of 2-liter flexible polyvinyl chloride containers for administration of total parenteral nutrient (TPN) solutions were studied. Times were measured for single and batch compounding of 50 2-liter and 50 1-liter TPN solutions and for nursing time associated with administration of 20 1-liter and 20 2-liter TPN solutions. Costs were calculated for personnel time and supplies for 100 1-liter and 50 2-liter TPN solutions using single and batch compounding. Rates of return, reuse, and waste were compared during a two-month period. Questionnaires were administered to nurses and physicians to measure acceptance of 2-liter containers. Time savings for 2-liter versus 1-liter containers were 7.33 and 3.06 minutes per 2-liter container for individual and batch processing, respectively. Nursing time saved with use of 2-liter containers was 2.79 minutes per 2-liter container. Total personnel and supply costs for 2-liter containers were $ 1.60 and $ 0.70 less per liter for individual and batch processing, respectively. For 2-liter TPN solutions prepared for 11 patients (129 patient days), waste was not significantly different than for the 1-liter control group. Questionnaire responses indicated overall acceptance of administration of 2-liter solutions as safe and efficient. For centrally administered TPN therapy in the inpatient setting, use of 2-liter flexible polyvinyl chloride containers is efficient and cost effective.